“STRANGERS INTO CITIZENS”

The Justice & Peace Group of St. John’s and St. Joseph’s Churches in Banbury backs the national “Strangers into Citizens” campaign for a one-off earned amnesty for undocumented immigrants.  The Home Office calculates there are at least 500,000 refused asylum seekers and visa overstayers who have made new lives in the U.K. and admits that most will never be expelled since the backlog is simply too great to resolve on a case by case basis.  The Group is in favour of giving those who have become established here a chance to integrate into society by showing willingness to work, pay taxes and abide by our laws.  The measure would also shrink the black market economy, help curb further illegal immigration and lead to a safer and more secure country.

In Banbury there is particular concern for hundreds who have come from Zimbabwe to live in and around Oxfordshire.  Many come traumatised as a result of their experience at the hands of the aggressive regime back home.   Mr. Joseph Sayi, Zimbabwean guest speaker at a fundraising meal recently arranged by the Group, emphasised the need for counselling such people.  Arriving jobless they distrust any kind of authority.  A common fear, for example, is that it is unwise to fall ill since reporting to a doctor or hospital might lead to extradition. 

But there is a positive side. Living in Britain teaches useful lessons about democracy which those remaining in Zimbabwe have never experienced.   Migrants will wish to pass on these lessons and contribute to the stability of the country when its present oppressive regime disappears.  Forward thinking is needed on this subject.

The meal, served in St. Joseph’s Hall and prepared by members of both parishes, was a happy occasion.  Nick Ndebele, Chairman of The Focus Trust, a local registered charity, kindly arranged for ten Zimbabweans to serve at table.  All sixty places were taken and flower arrangements reflected the colours of the Zimbabwean flag

Since ”Strangers into Citizens” was launched in Autumn 2006 with support from church leaders, trade unions and others the campaign has made rapid political progress.   There will be a national rally on May Bank Holiday (Monday 4 May) this year, most likely in Trafalgar Square in Central London, when tens of thousands of ordinary people are likely to turn out to show support.

Report by Frank Davis on behalf of the Banbury J&P Committee.